Maratha vs OBC: Hunger Strikes Intensify Tensions in Maharashtra

Maratha and OBC groups faced off on Saturday in Jalna, Maharashtra, over separate hunger strikes by Manoj Jarange and Laxman Hake. Hake accused Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of suppressing the OBC reservation movement. Police intervened to prevent a law and order situation. Both hunger strikes are ongoing.

Activists representing Maratha and OBC groups faced off in Jalna district, Maharashtra, on Saturday, escalating tensions rooted in separate hunger strikes by Manoj Jarange and Laxman Hake.

Hake, who began his fast on September 19 to protect the OBC quota, levied accusations against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Jarange. He charged them with attempting to suppress the OBC reservation movement.

Earlier in the day, a two-wheeler rally of hundreds of Maratha activists passed through Hake's protest site in Wadigodri village, leading to slogan shouting and counteractions from OBC communities. Police quickly dispersed both sides to prevent potential clashes.

Jarange has been fasting on a different site, pushing for the OBC quota for Marathas based on historical documents. As tensions rise, both sides remain committed to their demands, blaming state authorities for the escalating situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)